Okanagan Lake Level Continues to Rise
Central Okanagan, B.C. - Crews in the Central Okanagan continue to monitor lake levels and flood mitigation measures.
The BC River Forecast has indicated there is the potential for Okanagan Lake to increase to 343.15 m. Environment Canada reported Okanagan Lake reached 343.05 at 11:25 a.m. on May 27. This is a 5 cms rise since May 26 at 4 a.m. when the lake level was reported as 343 m.
Residents and visitors to the Central Okanagan are reminded to leave flood protection measures in place and bolster them in preparation for high water and possible windy conditions. High lake levels and variable weather conditions are expected to persist for the foreseeable future.
The flows in Mission Creek are expected to increase significantly over the next few days with the forecasted hot weather. Crews are monitoring the area and evaluating options for further protection between Lakeshore Bridge and the mouth of Okanagan Lake. Residents living along Mission Creek, especially those closer to the lake, are urged to reinforce the flood protection around their properties, due to increasing lake levels and potential for back water effect.
Sand and sand bag locations can be found on cordemergency.ca. Sand is continually being replenished.
The most up to date lake levels can be found on the Government of Canada’s website. The increase of lake levels being reported out by various agencies will depend on what time period is being used to report out on. https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/report/real_time_e.html?mode=Graph&type=&stn=08NM083&startDate=2017-05-19&endDate=2017-05-26&prm1=46&y1Max=&y1Min=&prm2=-1&y2Max=&y2Min=
Residents are reminded that this is a weather driven event and things will continue to evolve with the weather. A sudden change in weather could increase the risk of flooding.
All evacuation alerts and orders remain in effect. Check out the map at www.cordemergency.ca/map and search by address to determine if an area is under alert or order, or to find the closest sand and sandbag locations.
For municipal information such as boat launch, park and beach closures, and water quality advisories, visit their websites:
For more information, visit www.cordemergency.ca, sign up for e-updates or call the information line at 250-469-8490.
